Sheila writes: Before directing the Oscar-nominated (and Oscar-winning) "Whiplash," writer/director Damien Chazelle made a short film called "Whiplash," an excerpt from the larger story, with J.K. Simmons in the same role that just won him an Oscar. Miles Teller's role is played by Johnny Simmons. You can view the short film on Youtube (clip below). It's 17 minutes long, but it still gives a glimpse of the feature it would eventually become.

"Birdman," "Whiplash," "The Theory of Everything," and "Big Hero 6" hit Blu-ray just in time to capitalize on their Oscar wins, along with a complete list of how and when to see all of the 2015 Oscar nominees.